SKM Warns Centre Against India–US FTA; Announces Nationwide Agitation if Centre Signs India–US Trade Deal

New Delhi: The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has warned the Union Government against signing the proposed India–US Free Trade Agreement (FTA), announcing that farmers across the country would launch a massive protest movement immediately if the agreement is finalized.

The warning came during the SKM National Council meeting held in New Delhi, where leaders accused the Narendra Modi-led government of pursuing policies that they alleged favour multinational agribusiness interests and domestic corporate groups at the cost of farmers.

The meeting resolved to intensify nationwide agitations until the Centre enacts a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) based on the C2+50 per cent formula with assured procurement, repeals existing free trade agreements, and introduces a comprehensive farm loan waiver.

As part of the next phase of mobilisation, SKM announced that 10 August 2026 will be observed as a nationwide protest day. Marking the significance of the Quit India movement anniversary, farmer groups plan to organise actions including Rail Roko, Rasta Roko and Jail Bharo programmes. The exact forms of protest will be decided by State Coordination Committees and affiliated organisations.

The organisation also criticised the government’s MSP policy, alleging that procurement systems are being weakened and that policies are facilitating greater corporate control over food storage and distribution infrastructure.

Beyond trade and MSP issues, SKM announced plans to launch campaigns against rising prices and alleged black marketing of agricultural inputs and household essentials, including urea, diesel and cooking gas.

The council reiterated demands for a rural employment guarantee of 200 days of work annually at daily wages of ₹600 and sought an increase in minimum wages for casual migrant workers to ₹26,000 per month.

To prepare for the upcoming phase of agitation, SKM will hold an All India Convention in New Delhi on 28 July 2026, bringing together state and district leadership. The organisation also said it would strengthen coordination with workers, agricultural labourers, students and youth groups.

In collaboration with Central Trade Unions (CTUs), SKM announced a National Convention of Workers and Farmers on 29 July 2026 at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi, aimed at building broader solidarity among working people.

The meeting also discussed water rights and the growing water crisis, deciding to convene a special session to formulate an updated policy and action plan.

Additionally, the council adopted a resolution supporting demands raised by sections of the student movement seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak controversy. The meeting also extended support to ongoing struggle in Hisar on the issue of water crisis, Anti Nuclear Power plant struggle at Chosra,Chindwada and tribal struggle in Odisa against Land aquisition.

A presidium comprising Hannan Mollah, Satyawan, Rajan Kshirsagar, Dr. Darshan Pal, Dr. Sunilam, Dr. Ashish Mittal and Prem Singh Gehlawat conducted the proceedings. Raminder Singh Patiala welcomed the participants and P Krishnaprasad placed the concluding remarks.